“The occupation of Crimea is a violation of international law and the UN Charter. We cannot remain silent when the two main principles that guarantee the peaceful coexistence of peoples are violated.”– Mr  Martin Candinas, President of the National Council of the Federal Assembly of Swiss Confederation

“The occupation of Crimea is a violation of international law and the UN Charter. We cannot remain silent when the two main principles that guarantee the peaceful coexistence of peoples are violated.”– Mr  Martin Candinas, President of the National Council of the Federal Assembly of Swiss Confederation

Martin Kortis began his speech by thanking Ukraine and the Czech Republic for organizing the summit. The chairman noted that 9 years ago, Russia attempted to annex Crimea in Ukraine – this was a gross violation of international law. The occupation did not receive an appropriate response, it was not some unexpected incident, it was only the beginning of Russia’s plan. “The occupation of Crimea is a violation of international law and the UN Charter. We cannot remain silent when the two main principles that guarantee the peaceful coexistence of peoples are violated.” He noted that he will continue to condemn violations of international law. The Crimean platform is one of the opportunities where you can say out loud: “We are concerned and outraged by the severe restrictions on freedom of speech on the territory of Crimea and the forcible deportation of Crimean Tatars from their lands.” 

Switzerland is a party to many conventions that are the core of international law. Based on this tradition, Switzerland will continue to fight for the values ​​and peaceful development of Europe. Martin Candinas said that they will continue to demand that Russia withdraw its troops from the entire territory of Ukraine and remember its obligations under international law. In conclusion, he expressed his solidarity with Ukrainian citizens and Crimean Tatars who are in the occupied territory.